18 Six-Figure Jobs That Pay Over 100k A Year in 2026

We all aspire to earn a six-figure salary, and by 2026, there will be more career paths available than ever to turn that aspiration into reality. Whether your passion lies in healthcare, technology, finance, or leadership, this list highlights 18 professions that generally offer salaries exceeding $100,000 a year. We’ll explore what each job involves, the essential skills and qualifications you’ll need, and how to effectively position yourself to snag one of these high-paying roles.

Additionally, discover how Resumekraft’s AI-driven tools and resources, including resume templates, examples, and cover letters, can boost your chances of landing that dream job.

1. Product Marketing Manager

A product marketing manager (PMM) is a key player who sits right at the crossroads of product development, marketing, and sales. These professionals are tasked with crafting engaging messages about a product, developing go-to-market strategies, and making sure the product truly connects with its intended audience.

They work hand-in-hand with product managers, sales teams, and marketing specialists to successfully launch products and drive growth. PMMs are crucial for boosting adoption and increasing market share, especially in the rapidly changing tech world.

• Average Salary: $114,000+
• Eligibility: Experience in marketing, product knowledge, strategic thinking
• Perks: Creative influence, leadership opportunities, cross-team collaboration

2. Pharmacist

Pharmacists play a vital role in the healthcare system, ensuring that patients not only receive their medications safely but also understand how to use them effectively. Their responsibilities go far beyond just handing out prescriptions; they provide essential guidance on how to take medications, what side effects to watch for, and how different drugs might interact.

Additionally, pharmacists collaborate with healthcare providers and insurance companies to help manage prescriptions and control healthcare costs. Given the extensive training and ongoing education required in this field, it’s no surprise that pharmacists earn a competitive salary that reflects their significant contributions to patient care.

• Average Salary: $148,000+
• Eligibility: Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree, licensure
• Perks: High demand, patient interaction, respected healthcare role

3. Data Scientist

Data scientists play a crucial role in turning raw data into valuable insights that help businesses make informed decisions. They use a mix of techniques like statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization to spot trends and patterns. In today’s data-driven landscape, these experts are essential across various sectors, from finance to healthcare and marketing. Their unique blend of technical know-how and business savvy makes them highly desirable, often leading to lucrative job offers.

• Average Salary: $121,000+
• Eligibility: Degree in statistics, computer science, or related fields
• Perks: Dynamic work, continuous learning, impact on strategic direction

4. Software Developer

Software developers are the creative minds behind the software applications that power nearly every industry. They take concepts and transform them into working programs by writing code, fixing bugs, and collaborating with others to create features that users love. The field is constantly evolving, with opportunities in web, mobile, and embedded systems, making it a great place for career growth. With various entry points, including university degrees and coding bootcamps, this profession can be quite rewarding financially.

• Average Salary: $102,000+
• Eligibility: Background in computer science or coding bootcamp experience
• Perks: Remote work opportunities, creative problem solving, high demand

5. Product Manager

Product managers are the driving force behind a product’s vision, development, and marketing strategy, ensuring everything aligns with what customers want and the business aims to achieve. They prioritize features, work with diverse teams, and analyze market feedback to refine their approach. As technology like AI and machine learning makes products more complex, skilled product managers become vital for staying competitive and fostering innovation.

• Average Salary: $159,000+
• Eligibility: Experience in product lifecycle management, leadership skills
• Perks: Strategic role, leadership exposure, significant market impact

6. Veterinarian

Veterinarians are dedicated to providing medical care for animals, which includes diagnosing illnesses, performing surgeries, and giving vaccinations. Their work is essential for the health of pets, agricultural animals, and wildlife conservation efforts. This role demands a solid foundation in science, a compassionate approach, and excellent communication skills, especially when helping pet owners navigate tough decisions.

• Average Salary: $129,000+
• Eligibility: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, licensure
• Perks: Rewarding service, varied work environments, strong job satisfaction

7. Medical Doctor

Physicians play a vital role in diagnosing, treating, and monitoring various diseases and injuries in their patients. They specialize in areas ranging from family medicine to surgery and psychiatry, each requiring extensive training and expertise. This profession demands a commitment to lifelong learning, sharp critical thinking skills, and a genuine empathy for patients—qualities that not only lead to high salaries but also earn them respect in society.

• Average Salary: $160,000+
• Eligibility: Medical degree (MD or DO), residency, licensure
• Perks: High earning potential, diverse specialties, life-saving impact

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8. University Professor

Professors are dedicated to shaping the minds of future generations in higher education while also engaging in original research. Their duties encompass teaching, mentoring students, publishing academic papers, and enriching their field’s knowledge base. This role offers a blend of intellectual satisfaction and stable salaries, especially for those who achieve tenure or hold senior positions.

• Average Salary: $115,000+
• Eligibility: PhD in relevant field, research experience
• Perks: Academic freedom, opportunities for research, influence on future leaders

9. Optometrist

Optometrists focus on assessing and correcting visual issues, prescribing glasses or contact lenses, and diagnosing various eye conditions. They often provide preventative care and refer patients for medical treatment when needed. This job requires a deep understanding of anatomy and strong interpersonal skills to effectively support patients’ eye health.

• Average Salary: $125,000+
• Eligibility: Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree, certification
• Perks: Strong patient relationships, specialized care, varied practice settings

10. Real Estate Agent

Real estate agents are there to help clients navigate the buying, selling, or renting of properties. They need to possess sharp negotiation skills, a solid grasp of the market, and excellent networking abilities. While their income is typically commission-based, top-performing agents can consistently earn six figures by closing lucrative deals and cultivating loyal client relationships.

• Average Salary: $106,000+
• Eligibility: Licensing per state, sales experience beneficial
• Perks: Flexible schedule, entrepreneurial opportunities, high earning potential

11. Financial Manager

Financial managers are responsible for overseeing the financial well-being of an organization, crafting strategies for budgeting, investment, and risk management. They ensure compliance and guide key stakeholders through financial reporting and forecasting. Success in this well-paying role hinges on strong analytical and leadership skills.

• Average Salary: $140,000+
• Eligibility: Degree in finance/accounting, certifications like CPA/CFA
• Perks: Leadership role, strategic influence, rewarding challenges

12. Director of Growth

Directors of growth are the marketing visionaries who create strategies for acquiring and retaining customers. They lead teams and campaigns, leveraging data analytics to enhance outcomes. As key drivers of revenue, their positions are essential for scaling companies, which is why they command such high salaries.

• Average Salary: $127,000+
• Eligibility: Marketing experience, leadership skills
• Perks: Creative role, impact on company success, team management

13. Executive

Executives are the driving force behind a company, shaping its vision, managing resources, and ensuring it stays profitable. The choices they make have a significant impact on the company’s direction and the value it provides to stakeholders. It’s not just about having a degree; a solid track record in business and strong leadership skills are crucial.

• Average Salary: $188,000+
• Eligibility: MBA often preferred; extensive experience
• Perks: High influence, lucrative compensation, career prestige

14. Psychologist

Psychologists play a vital role in mental health by assessing, diagnosing, and treating various conditions through therapy and research. They can be found in clinics, schools, and private practices, where they need to possess empathy, strong research abilities, and a commitment to confidentiality.

• Average Salary: $145,000+
• Eligibility: Psychology PhD or PsyD, licensure
• Perks: Fulfilling work, diverse job settings, ongoing learning

15. Dentist

Dentists are responsible for diagnosing and treating oral health issues, performing various dental procedures, and educating patients on how to care for their teeth. Their skills range from routine cleanings to more complex surgical interventions.

• Average Salary: $172,000+
• Eligibility: Dental degree (DDS or DMD), licensure
• Perks: High earning potential, varied patients, established career

16. Orthodontist

Orthodontists focus on fixing misaligned teeth and jaws, using braces and other corrective devices. Their work is a unique blend of healthcare and cosmetic dentistry, helping patients achieve both health and aesthetic goals.

• Average Salary: $310,000+
• Eligibility: Dental degree plus orthodontics residency
• Perks: Outstanding earnings, specialized practice, patient transformation

17. Anesthesiologist

Anesthesiologists play a critical role in surgeries by managing anesthesia and monitoring patients’ vital signs. Their job is high-pressure and requires precision, extensive training, and the ability to stay calm in challenging situations.

• Average Salary: $438,000+
• Eligibility: Medical school, anesthesiology residency
• Perks: Exceptional remuneration, critical care role, respected specialty

18. Nurse Practitioner

Nurse practitioners offer advanced healthcare services, diagnosing illnesses and prescribing treatments. They serve as a bridge between nursing and physician roles, often acting as primary care providers for patients.

• Average Salary: $126,000+
• Eligibility: BSN, advanced nursing degree, certification
• Perks: Autonomy, patient interaction, growing demand

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How to Land a Six-Figure Job in 2026

Landing a six-figure salary isn’t just about being in the right place at the right time—it takes a thoughtful strategy involving education, skill-building, experience, and personal branding. Here’s a step-by-step career guide to help you navigate your way to a six-figure job, complete with links to useful resources on Resumekraft to boost your job search.

1. Choose the Right Career Path

Start by researching jobs that offer solid six-figure earning potential in your chosen industry or field. Think about your strengths, what you’re passionate about, and the time and money you’re willing to invest in training or education. Use job market data and forecasts to get a sense of demand and salary trends.

Check out our comprehensive resume examples for different professions to see how those in six-figure roles present themselves.

2. Obtain Relevant Education and Certifications

A lot of six-figure careers require specific degrees or certifications. Whether it’s a medical degree, an MBA, a coding bootcamp, or professional certifications like PMP, CPA, or AWS, having the right qualifications can significantly boost your earning potential.

Take a look at resume formats that effectively showcase your academic achievements and certifications, making your resume stand out to hiring managers.

3. Build In-Demand Skills

When it comes to hiring, employers are on the lookout for candidates who possess a mix of technical know-how and soft skills. For those eyeing tech positions, being skilled in programming languages, cloud services, or data analysis is a must. On the other hand, if you’re aiming for leadership roles, strong communication, project management, and strategic thinking are crucial.

Make the most of the AI resume builder to customize your resume with the latest keywords and highlight the skills that align with those six-figure job opportunities.

4. Gain Relevant Experience

Experience is still a key player in landing high-paying jobs. Whether it’s through internships, entry-level roles, freelance gigs, or volunteer work, these experiences help you build practical skills and prove your worth.

Don’t forget to showcase your achievements and the impact you’ve made by checking out resume examples designed for professionals with growing experience.

5. Network and Leverage Industry Connections

Creating a solid professional network can really open up doors for new opportunities and mentorship. Make it a point to attend industry events, join professional groups, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn to connect with key influencers and decision-makers.

When reaching out, personalize your networking efforts with engaging profiles and resumes crafted using customizable resume templates tailored for various industries.

6. Craft a High-Impact Resume and Cover Letter

Your resume and cover letter are your chance to make a great first impression. Make sure they shine by showcasing your achievements, skills, and a professional story that fits the roles you’re targeting.

With Resumekraft’s AI resume builder, you can whip up ATS-friendly documents that really stand out. Plus, don’t forget to pair your application with engaging cover letters customized for each job.

7. Prepare Thoroughly for Interviews

Nailing an interview is all about being prepared. Dive into research about the company, practice common and job-specific questions, and be ready to explain how you can bring value to the team.

Check out interview guides and job search tips to help you get ready as you set your sights on those six-figure positions.

8. Negotiate Your Salary Confidently

Once you land an offer, negotiating is crucial for getting the best paycheck possible. Understand your market value, express your worth, and don’t hesitate to ask for what you deserve.

Leverage salary data and negotiation tactics to empower yourself during discussions and enhance your earning potential.

Conclusion

Reaching a six-figure salary is definitely within reach in various fields, including technology, healthcare, marketing, and finance. Although the paths to get there can differ, succeeding in these well-paying positions typically involves a mix of education, hands-on experience, ongoing skill development, and smart career choices.

By getting a clear picture of what these high-paying jobs entail, you can better set your goals and prepare for the next steps in your career. Whether you decide to specialize in a technical area, move into management, or tap into your leadership abilities, there are plenty of opportunities out there for those willing to invest in their professional journey.

To truly maximize your potential and shine in a competitive job market, it’s crucial to create a standout resume and application. Resumekraft provides AI-powered tools and expertly crafted templates that make it easy to design personalized resumes and cover letters that showcase your unique strengths and accomplishments. Start building your six-figure career today with resources that are tailored to give you an advantage and help you grab the best opportunities in 2026 and beyond.